John Stanmeyer made this image of three volcanoes in East Java, Indonesia, just as the dawn light started peering out over the horizon. A long exposure time (f/4.5 at 126 seconds) captured stars (seen as white flecks in the sky) and the exceptional light in this image: "Such a unique view can only occur during those few seconds where the existing moonlight balances with the almost unseen first rays of sunlight," says Stanmeyer. Mount Semeru erupts in the far distance while a stream of white smoke trails out of Mount Bromo.

Absolutely the finest civilian twilight shot I have ever seen. While I am an astronomy buff, forget about the stars and tell us more about the equipment and set up. The real story would have to be in the location, set up and (of course) the expertise of this professional; but knowing more about the gear would at least let the rest of dream it might be possible ... one day ... just a glimpse ...

I've consulted my thesaurus and can't find a sufficient superlative to describe this photo. If I had made this photo, I would be able to hang up my camera and say to myself, "your life was worthwhile."